Titans set for first Sweet 16 run since 2003

by Dylan Scott, Fox 11 Sports

Titans set for first Sweet 16 run since 2003

OSHKOSH - The Oshkosh men's basketball team is preparing for their first NCAA Division III Sweet 16 appearance since 2003 this week and the Titans hope it's just another step in what has been a special season.

"We haven't talked about it too much because we don't want it to end," junior guard Ben Boots said. "Being the first team in 15 years is special. But we want to get to an Elite Eight, Final Four."

After defeating Marietta and Wittenburg (Ohio) in the opening two rounds, UWO will travel to Rock Island, Ill. this weekend for the next set of showdowns. Oshkosh opens with Emory on Friday night at 5: 30 p.m. The winner will advance to meet the winner of Augustana-John Carroll Saturday night.

"March is the best month of the year and for us to be participating in it is a great feeling," head coach Pat Juckem said. "We talked to the guys about not being satisfied. Now the reality is we feel we have a great opportunity."

The Titans feature five players, (Ben Boots, Charlie Noone, Brett Wittchow, Adam Fravert, Jack Flynn) averaging nearly double figures in scoring, the type of versatility which could come determine whether Oshkosh advances past the next part of their bracket.

"We have a lot of different players that can score on this team" senior guard Charlie Noone said. "It makes us very dangerous."

Battle tested at 22-7 out of the WIAC, Pat Juckem's team has finally put together an NCAA Tournament run this team can hang a banner on, meeting the expectations they set before the season.

"With this year's team, we felt it was time for us to go and advance," Juckem said,

"It's awesome, just a great mood," Boots said. "I'd say we're not satisfied. Hopefully we have a few games ahead of us."